Harper Government Invests in Animal Health

John Barlow, Member of Parliament for Macleod, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz today announced an investment of over $268,000 to Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) to help ensure that cattle arriving at auctions and abattoirs are in good health and meet the standards required for processing.

The development of a comprehensive report to improve strategies for the management of current and potential animal care related issues is seen as a priority for the beef sector.

Since 2009, the Government of Canada has invested over $5 million to update existing and develop new codes of practice, complete the on-farm animal care assessment model and promote Canada's approach to farm animal care.

This investment is being made through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's AgriMarketing Program, Assurance Systems, which is a five-year, up to $341 million initiative under the Growing Forward 2 policy framework.

Quotes

"Our Government is taking a full "gate-to-plate" approach to animal welfare to respond to consumer concerns, and open up new marketing opportunities for producers and the whole value chain. This investment will help improve management strategies to allow for the proper care and assessment of cattle before they enter the food supply chain."

John Barlow, Member of Parliament for Macleod

"Alberta Farm Animal Care is grateful for the support provided through the Growing Forward 2 AgriMarketing Program. This project is focused on determining where we are at with our cattle transport protocols, identifying risk factors that may affect animals during transport, and communicating effectively with stakeholders across the cattle value chain. This funding will help us to be proactive in ensuring optimal health and welfare for cattle throughout their lives."